Visitor numbers at Bowhill House and Country Estate, near Selkirk, rocketed in 2013 thanks to a fun-packed events schedule inspired by the Year of Natural Scotland.
During the Scottish Government campaign celebrating the country’s natural beauty, the 46,000-acre estate saw numbers rise from 13,000 to 20,000 – an increase of more than 50 per cent.
The initiative inspired Bowhill’s team to create a programme of ranger-led activity covering an array of themes, from pond dipping and mini-beast safaris, to recycling and bird feeding. Other attractions included Bowhill House’s Victorian kitchen, architecture and house tours, waymarked walks and an adventure playground.
Helen Currie, house and events manager, said: “We applaud the Year of Natural Scotland for really putting the spotlight on the spectacular natural beauty our country has to offer – and this estate is the perfect example. We felt a real sense of responsibility to help promote this message and showcase the amazing landscape, history and natural beauty of Bowhill.”